Meet the Disney 'princess in waiting' who exceeds all standards but remains unrecognized. Why the long wait for recognition?

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Ngày cập nhật gần nhất: 1/5/2026

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This princess has been overlooked by Disney for years, despite meeting all set standards.

Disney's official princess list includes only 12 names, leaving many other characters misunderstood or lamented for not making the cut. This princess, however, creates the most buzz as she meets all criteria but remains on the reserve list.

According to Screen Rant, this princess is Anya (or Anastasia 'Anya' Romanov) from the 1997 animated film Anastasia. Originally produced by 20th Century Fox, Anya became a Disney character after Disney's acquisition of the studio. However, unlike her 'sisters,' Anastasia is still not formally recognized as a Disney princess.

There is no specific criterion for a character to be certified as a Disney princess. From the 12 official princesses, fans have deduced some basic principles, including being human or part-human (like Ariel), playing a central role in the original film, having royal lineage (by birth or marriage), or displaying heroic deeds. Anastasia, as the leading lady of the 1997 film, naturally meets these criteria.

Additionally, her film has a musical inclination and has achieved significant success both artistically and commercially. So why hasn't Anastasia been recognized even after more than 25 years? According to Screen Rant, the primary reason is that Disney's executives haven't selected her. Furthermore, Anastasia was acquired by Disney rather than being internally produced.

Nevertheless, the exclusion of Anastasia and other leading ladies from Disney films as 'official princesses' has left many fans disappointed and disheartened.

Source: Screen Rant

Frequently Asked Questions

Why has Disney not officially recognized Anya from Anastasia as a princess?

Despite meeting the criteria for Disney princesses, Anya from Anastasia has not been officially recognized. This exclusion is primarily due to Disney executives' decisions and the fact that her character was acquired from 20th Century Fox rather than being created internally by Disney.

What criteria do characters need to meet to be considered Disney princesses?

To be recognized as a Disney princess, characters typically need to be human or part-human, play a central role in their film, possess royal lineage, or demonstrate heroic deeds. Anya from Anastasia meets all these criteria but remains unrecognized.

How has Anastasia performed artistically and commercially since its release?

Anastasia, released in 1997, has performed exceptionally well both artistically and commercially. Its musical elements and captivating storytelling have resonated with audiences, contributing to its status as a beloved animated film, despite the character not being formally acknowledged by Disney.

What are the main reasons for fans' disappointment regarding Disney's princess list?

Fans are disappointed with Disney's official princess list because many beloved characters, like Anastasia, are overlooked despite meeting the necessary criteria. This exclusion leaves fans feeling that their favorite characters do not receive the recognition they deserve.

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